TESCO'S bid to build a huge new supermarket in Hounslow has suffered a setback due to concerns over traffic congestion.

Members of Hounslow Council's sustainable development committee were due to vote last Monday (July 25) on the planning application for the London Road site, beside Hounslow bus garage.

However, the item was removed from the agenda after transport bosses raised concerns about plans for a new set of traffic lights near the store's entrance.

A Transport for London spokeswoman said: "We have asked Tesco to consider alternative options to a signal controlled junction as part of its application. We have done that because we're working to smooth traffic flows (across London) by minimising the use of such junctions."

A council spokesman said the application had been removed from the agenda following the publication of the new London Plan on the Friday (July 22) before the meeting.

"This meant officers required time to fully assess the implications of any policy change. This was specifically in relation to highways issues and discussion with TFL is ongoing," he added.

The London Plan sets out guidelines for development across the capital, covering everything from housing and transport issues to health and pollution.

Tony Fletcher, corporate affairs manager for Tesco, said: "Whilst we understand the broad policy agenda, in this case we believe the advantages of a signal controlled junction outweigh those of a non-signalised junction for the store access.

"Naturally we are disappointed that consideration of our scheme has been deferred as we are keen to get on and deliver the first class shopping, 350 new jobs and multi-million pound investment the new store and town centre shoppers' car park will bring.

"We do hope we can move forward as quickly as possible to deliver these significant benefits for people in Hounslow."